The government is on track to achieve the target of increasing revenue from its tourism industry to USD 6 billion by the year 2027, the Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim has said.
In an exclusive interview with PSM News, Minister Thoriq pointed out that the primary objective of the Fifth Tourism Master Plan is to increase tourism revenue to USD 6 billion.
According to the Minister, the government has already launched several initiatives to reach the target, including the strengthening of air and sea transport networks to ensure ease of transportation and access.
These efforts, he said, will push the country closer towards the 2027 target, which will boost foreign exchange in the economy and accelerate the pace of development.
"Then tourism will be expanded by increasing the number of tourists coming through Maldives’ main gateway, the airport and increasing the number of aircraft landing at the airport,” he explained.
Highlighting the country’s historic target of attracting 2.3 million tourists to its shores this year, the Minister said Maldives will cross one million tourists by Saturday.
Minister Thoriq also urged locals to do everything possible to protect the environment as 80 percent of tourists come to Maldives to see and enjoy its natural beauty.
He also stressed on the importance of bringing about sustainable development without destroying its natural resources.